Lesson Six Document Assignment
Section One
Research 3 different document management systems available to law offices. Provide a brief summary on each of the 3 systems including important functions. Also include a one paragraph recommendation as to which system you think is the best and why.
Some of the document management systems (DMS) available to law offices are eFileCabinet, LexWorkplace, and iManage. eFileCabinet is a DMS that focuses on storage and management of documents across law firms, HR, accounting, and insurance teams. The most important function of eFileCabinet is automating business and workflow as it defines the workflow for each document. LexWorkplace is cloud-based and the first DMS to support both Mac and Windows. The most important functions include powerful search, document versioning, and email integration. LexWorkplace is highly recommended for small law firms (Schooley, 2020). iManage provides a wide range of robust document management functions for large firms. The main functions are powerful search index and search engine.
I think eFileCabinet is the best option as it is cloud based. Most of these DMS offer similar functions but eFileCabinet stands out as it is based on the internet. The system does not require server resources or software downloads. Since the cloud is considered as the future of IT, it is only reasonable to settle for an option that will still be relevant over the many years to come. Furthermore the cloud offers reduced costs, better security, and shared resources for firms.
Section Two
What are the functions of a successful billing system?
A successful billing system should be user friendly and capable of organizing client accounts as attorneys rely on systems that can be reliable. Some of the functions include: setting up invoices, enabling sharing of those invoices, setting up and applying fees and taxes, scheduling a cutoff periods for billing, setting up automated payment emails, running pre-bills, and running batch billing (Pansini, 2017).
Section Three
List at least 3 advantages computerized time-tracking has over manual time-tracking.
Efficient since computerized time tracking eliminates time spent on manual time-tracking (Winston, n,d).
Accuracy as it eliminates human error.
Convenient as it is mobile.
References
Pansini, L. (2017). 9 Steps to a Functioning and Successful Billing System. Retrieved from https://www.rocketmatter.com/legal-billing/9-steps-better-billing-infographic/
Schooley, S. (2020). How to Choose the Best Document Management Software for your Law Firm. Retrieved from https://www.business.com/articles/legal-document-management-software/
Winston, E. (n.d). Advantages of Computerized Time Tracking Over Manual Time Tracking. Retrieved from https://www.timesolv.com/blog/advantages-of-computerized-time-tracking-over-manual-time-tracking/
